after-timing effect

The psychological phenomenon where an individual experiences frustration or regret upon discovering a beneficial change or opportunity that occurs immediately after they leave or finish an experience. It often involves feelings of envy, loss, or unfairness, as the timing of the improvement would have directly benefited the individual had it occurred earlier. This effect can lead to counterfactual thinking and a sense of "what could have been."

"The university just announced new funding for research projects, but I’m graduating next month. I guess I'm experiencing the after-timing effect."

"I spent years working at that company, and just after I left, they introduced flexible work-from-home options. It’s the After-Timing Effect at play!"

"After years of hard work, I finally graduate, and now they’re offering a campus-wide discount for DoorDash—classic After-Timing Effect!"